Forest pupils boosted by mock interviews by businesses

Forest pupil Akshay Nugent being interviewed by Mark Walton of RPS and Liz Maloney, of ChangeBlazer.

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Teenagers at The Forest School had the chance to practise their interview techniques before they face the ordeal for real.

Final year GCSE pupils at the Winnersh school benefited from a day of ‘trial runs’ before attempting to impress their way into a college or sixth form place or a job.

More than 30 employers in Reading, Newbury and Wokingham helped around 190 boys by taking part in an interview day earlier this month.

The businessmen and women who gave up their time to act as interviewers included property managers RPS, recruitment company Park Street People, National Grid and interactive trainer Liz Philips.

Before the big day, the boys were given advice on writing CVs and dealing with job applications. They also learned the importance of research, dress sense and body language.

Boys were sent formal interview letters giving them their time. They were then interviewed by two-person panels every half-hour on a rota system.

Martin Weddell, director of John Nike Leisuresport in Bracknell, said: “It was a real pleasure helping out students with interview practice and techniques. I am sure they are all the more equipped for the business world following the exercises they have done and the feedback they received from business professionals on the day.”

Nick Croxford, manager of the Newbury Building Society in Wokingham, said: “My fellow interviewer and I were impressed with the calibre of all the students we interviewed; all were good and several were exceptional.

“I wish I had had this opportunity when I was at school. It definitely helps you to be more confident and reminds you to do the research into the company interviewing you.”

The pupils want to thank everyone who took part in the day, which was planned with the help of the Education Business Partnership West Berkshire.

n If your company would like to help with future events, contact Carol Ryall, Forest’s business and community manager, on (0118) 978 1626.